Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor. 15:58

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Thursday, July 7, 2011

Day 19: Helpful Critcism

Proverbs 28:23-- In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery.

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Ok, I LOVE that part "IN THE END" lol  Meaning you probably won't like it going through it... but IN THE END, you will find it helpful. 

Criticism should be given in a loving manner. It should be given using nice words, with the best of intentions, and with the tools for improvement. It should be used as a tool to grow and not used to destroy (as so many reality TV shows seem to think)

If someone criticizes you harshly, take a step back.  Think about their words (not their tone).  Think about if their words have truth in them.  And then, as always, PRAY about it.  A negative criticism will damper any spirit.  We need to focus on getting ourselves up and making changes for the better. 

Also if you are the one giving the critique, make sure you give an honest and loving one with good things they did (if possible... Hey maybe they wore a  nice shirt???).  But in the end, nicely tell them what they need to work on and THEN give them ways to work on it.

Make sure to encourage-- not discourage.

No one likes thinking they did something wrong (Ring Leader here!), but "IN THE END" an honest friend- an honest answer- is worth much more than someone who is just a "Yes, Man."

God Bless You!

Kelly

3 comments:

  1. Hi Kelly. Excellent post and I love the practical advice. I tend to not take 'criticism' very well from my husband and need to do that 'take a step back' thing and hear the words, look for the truth in it before I explode with offense.
    God bless
    Tracy

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  2. Kelly, this is a tough area for me. I certainly don't want the people around me to be "yes men/women", but I also really don't like criticism. But your advice is right. We need to listen to the words being spoken and see if there is any truth in them. And prayer should cover everything. Great post!

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  3. Oh........ I don't like criticism either. I need to be better at taking it, though, because it can help me in future things. Yes, I def. need to pray about it. Thank so much for the comments :)

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